Smoking can have a serious and lasting impact on your eye health. The harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke can damage the delicate structures of the eye, increasing the risk of sight-threatening conditions and long-term vision problems.
Did you know that cigarette smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals? At least 70 of these chemicals are known to cause cancer. Some of these chemicals include nicotine, formaldehyde, lead, ammonia, benzene and carbon monoxide.
Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death. Smoking harms all areas and organs of the body; not only does it cause cancer and heart disease, but it can also affect your eye health.
Eye disorders associated with Smoking
Smoking increases the risk of developing several serious eye conditions, many of which can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated here are some of the eye disorders associated with smoking:
1. Smoking and Macular Degeneration
Smoking increases the risk of developing macular degeneration. Research has shown that you are three times more likely to develop macular degeneration than someone that doesn't smoke. People that don't smoke may develop macular degeneration through passive smoking.
2. Smoking and Cataracts
People that smoke are at great risk of developing cataracts compared to non smokers. Research shows that the more you smoke the greater the likelihood of developing cataracts.
3. Smoking and Diabetic Retinopathy
It is well known that smoking causes the hardening of blood vessels. Diabetic retinopathy causes damage to blood vessels within the retina. Smoking may not be the direct cause of diabetic retinopathy but may play a role in the progression of the disorder alongside other factors such as genetics and family history. Today, diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of blindness.
4. Smoking and Uveitis
Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that initiate inflammation of blood vessels which may lead to uveitis. Uveitis is the inflammation of the uvea (middle layer of the eye). This condition can contribute to loss of vision. Research shows that individuals are twice as likely to develop uveitis compared to individuals who have never smoked.
5. Smoking and Dry Eyes
Dry eye syndrome occurs when the eyes do not produce sufficient tears to lubricate the eye surface. Symptoms of dry eyes include grittiness, foreign body sensation, redness, stinging and itchiness. Cigarette smoke can contribute to the symptoms of dry eyes. Not only is the smoker at risk, but passive smokers may also experience dry eye symptoms.
6. Smoking During Pregnancy
Women who smoke during pregnancy may put their unborn child at risk of developing eye disorders. Smoking increases the risk of foetal and infant eye problems and may cause a baby to be cross-eyed (strabismus). Smoking also increases the risk of premature birth and babies born prematurely are at risk of retinopathy of prematurity.
Can giving up Smoking Improve your Eye Health?
One of the best things you can do for your eye health if you are a smoker is to give up smoking. Stopping smoking can help slow the progression of certain eye conditions and reduce the risk of further damage to your vision.
If you need help with giving up smoking, contact your GP who can advise on smoking cessation support and treatments suitable for you.
If you need further assistance with your eye care needs, contact us today.